This was a great trip, made better by a fantastic guide who went out of her way to ensure everyone had a great time.
Grand Canyon Holidays & Tours
Grand Canyon Tours
Nothing can describe the majesty of the greatest of all canyons, the Grand Canyon. Located in the state of Arizona, this natural wonder will leave you in awe of its beauty and majesty and our Grand Canyon tours take you up close and personal. Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, its vast expanse stretches for 277 miles and reaches depths of over a mile. Its layers of rock reveal a geological history that spans billions of years, making it a valuable site in the USA for scientific study.
Its size is simply incomprehensible to anyone peering into the gorge from the top and light plays with forms and colours as the sun moves across the sky, presenting an ever-changing panorama. Our Grand Canyon trips at sunrise are extra special; as the sun appears over the mountains, its rays start filtering into the canyon, causing an explosion of colour and turning the rocks shades of red, orange and bronze. This is a phenomenal experience and if you’re lucky, you might even spot Californian condors soaring overhead. Surrounding the canyon, there are fantastic walking trails through the national park and our tours to the Grand Canyon offer an optional helicopter ride over this natural spectacle.
Beyond its geological significance, our Grand Canyon tours are also popular with adventure seekers and nature lovers. You’ll have the option to hike along the rim or raft along the river to experience its grandeur from a unique perspective.
Our Grand Canyon Holidays
Top 5 Walking Trails around the Grand Canyon
1. Bright Angel Trail: The Bright Angel Trail is arguably the most popular hiking route in the Grand Canyon due to its accessibility and stunning views. This 9.5-mile round trip trail takes you from the South Rim of the canyon down to the Colorado River and back, offering a diverse range of landscapes and ecosystems along the way. You’ll be treated to panoramic views of the canyon walls, rock formations and the mighty Colorado River as you descend deeper into the canyon. The trail is well-maintained and has rest stops and water stations at regular intervals, making it suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
2. South Kaibab Trail: If you’re looking for a more challenging hike with equally spectacular views, the South Kaibab Trail is a must-do and is led by one of our expert guides on a small group tour. This 6.3-mile round trip trail starts at the South Rim and descends into the canyon, providing you with unobstructed views of the stunning rock formations, cliffs and spires that make up the canyon’s landscape. The trail is steep and offers little shade, so it’s recommended to hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat. You’ll be rewarded with the most incredible vistas of the canyon and the opportunity to witness the changing colours of the rock formations as the sun sets.
3. North Kaibab Trail: The North Kaibab Trail offers a more secluded and serene hiking experience compared to its South Rim counterparts. This 14-mile round trail descends from the North Rim down to the canyon floor, passing through lush forests, meadows and creeks along the way. You’ll be surrounded by the tranquility of nature and the soothing sounds of the flowing water as you make your way down into the depths of the canyon. The trail is challenging due to its length and elevation, but the rewarding views of the canyon and the Phantom Ranch at the bottom make it worthwhile.
4. Rim-to-Rim Trail: For the ultimate Grand Canyon hiking experience, the Rim-to-Rim Trail offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that takes you from one rim of the canyon to the other. This 21-mile trail traverses the depths of the canyon, passing through some of the most dramatic and diverse landscapes in the area. You can choose to start from either the North Rim or the South Rim and make your way across the canyon, passing unusual rock formations, forests and waterfalls along the way. The trail is challenging but the sense of accomplishment and the unparalleled views of the canyon from both rims make it an unforgettable experience.
5. Hermit Trail: The Hermit Trail is a much more rugged and remote hiking experience. The 7-mile round trail starts at the Hermit’s Rest on the South Rim and descends into the canyon, passing through ancient rock formations and hidden gems that are off the beaten path. You’re rewarded with stunning views of the canyon and the Colorado River as you make your way down the steep and rocky trail. The trail is less crowded than others so you can soak up the tranquility and beauty of the canyon in peace.
Gordon McGowan Trek America: Canyons & National Parks
Marin Popa Trek America: Canyons & National ParksThe itinerary was very well-balanced, including a combination of various sightseeing and walks. For us, first-time visitors to these parts of the USA, every day brought something new and amazing, and we enjoyed it thoroughly. Mike, our guide, is a consummate professional – he ensured everything went like clockwork and without doubts or worries, he gave us all the information we needed, told us in an attractive storytelling manner short historical, geographical, and social narratives, enabling us to understand better the places we saw. His permanent optimism and sense of humor made everything look easy and every minute pleasant and worth remembering. The whole atmosphere was relaxing and as magical as the sites we visited. Thanks! Suggestions for improving the experience: 1. It should be noted that the seats in the van are quite narrow, especially in the last row. There were 11 of us and we fit in the van relatively comfortably. A party of 13 would feel very tight, especially on the longer drives. 2. The best accommodations were in Tonopah and Zion. I understand that there are few other options in most of the locations, but at the price we paid, better motels would have been welcomed. Sorry if I seem a bit picky – all in all, it was a trip to remember, an experience of a lifetime.
Carolyn Smith Trek America: Canyons & National ParksVery well chosen set of destinations, excellent guide. Informative, helpful, attentive and dynamic
How big is the Grand Canyon?
Dominating the Arizona landscape in the USA, the Grand Canyon is an immense natural wonder that never fails to astound visitors with its size. It stretches for over 270 miles in length and reaches depths of up to 6,000 feet, paying testament to the remarkable forces of erosion that have shaped the landscape over millions of years. With an average width of 10 miles, the Canyon is made up of colourful rock layers and steep cliffs, making it one of the most iconic and impressive canyons in the world.
When is the best time for Grand Canyon tours?
The best time to visit the Grand Canyon will depend on personal preferences and any activities you want to do while you’re there. However, many people prefer to visit in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) as these are considered the best times to explore the canyon. This natural wonder draws millions of visitors each year so if you prefer to miss the crowds then it’s best to avoid the summer months. In spring and autumn, the weather is moderate, the crowds are relatively smaller and the landscape is alive with colour and wildlife.
FAQs on Grand Canyon Tours
Are there different parts of the Grand Canyon to visit?
Yes, the Grand Canyon is divided into two main areas: the South Rim and the North Rim. One of the most popular parts to visit is the South Rim as it has 360-degree panoramic views, visitor facilities and hiking trails such as the Bright Angel Trail and the South Kaibab Trail. The North Rim is less crowded and higher in elevation, providing a cooler and more tranquil experience with its lush forests and diverse wildlife. For the more adventurous of you, the West Rim is home to the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass bridge with a thrilling vantage point.
What activities can I do at the Grand Canyon?
One of the most popular activities at the Grand Canyon is hiking. With numerous trails of varying difficulty levels, you can explore the depths of the canyon, the rim or both. Trails such as the Bright Angel Trail and South Kaibab Trail offer spectacular views and the chance to witness the canyon’s geological formations up close. If you’re looking for a different perspective, take a helicopter tour and enjoy a bird’s eye view. Culture lovers can explore the Grand Canyon Village and visit the historic buildings, museums and art galleries which will give you an insight into the history and geology of the canyon.
Is it safe to hike in the Grand Canyon?
Hiking in the Grand Canyon is an exhilarating and rewarding experience and your safety is always our top priority. With its rugged terrain, extreme temperatures and remote location, we go to great lengths to prepare for our Grand Canyon tours. It is essential to stay hydrated, protect yourself from the sun and be aware of weather conditions. Proper footwear is also crucial for a safe hike. Knowing your limits and being mindful of the signs of fatigue or heat exhaustion is important to prevent any accidents.
What else is there to do on Grand Canyon trips?
Beyond the iconic viewpoints, there are many more things to do when visiting this natural wonder. Explore lesser-known areas such as Havasu Falls and the North Rim for a unique perspective of the enormity of the canyon or hike to Plateau Point or Skeleton Point for unparalleled panoramas. If you’re interested in history, discover ancient ruins and rock art sites that are scattered throughout the canyon. For the ultimate thrill and an alternative perspective, go river rafting along the Colorado River.
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